Page 45 - CelebrationsSpring2020

are not allowed. Most strollers, even double strollers, fit within those dimensions, but check yours to be sure.
Disney rental strollers and mobility assistance vehicles are available at the entrance to each park. They’re very convenient, and if yours gets confused with another guest’s or has technical problems, it’s easy to get a replacement. The downside is you cannot take Disney’s strollers or scooters between parks or to your hotel. That is a bigger downside if you’re staying off-property and can cause problems for moving around large resort properties or Disney Springs.
I recommend renting a scooter for the entire trip if you need one. Those with mobility impairments are likely to need the assistance between parks and to your hotel. Turning in a scooter at the end of the day and facing a walk back to your hotel when you’re tired can be miserable. When renting a scooter, take some time to become accustomed to the controls before you take it into the parks. The parks can get crowded and you want to know what you’re doing. You also want to be comfortable being in it. It’s a real change
of perspective moving from your normal head height to seat-level. People in a crowd are unpredictable. They stop suddenly, turn in unexpected directions, and back up into wheelchairs or scooters behind them with surprising frequency.
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the ramps at the corners of sidewalks. If you’re new to using a scooter you might find yourself backtracking to use a ramp off a sidewalk.
Cast Members at Disney are incredibly helpful and accommodating for those with mobility impairments. There are always seating areas at parades and shows. Accessibility for all of the rides is on the parks’ websites, so take the time to look it up before you go. Every ride is clearly labeled with your mobility options, so you don’t have to memorize anything.
Take time to think about what you plan to do each day, and then layer in the mobility needs of the people in your group. Disney has fantastic options no matter how you approach your vacation.
Photos ©Mike Billick
s
Photo ©Disney
·
45 · Celebrations
4
45
5·
C
C
e
e
l
le
eb
b
r
ra
a
t
t
i
io
on
ns